Young people want to help build the future – Ongwediva junior mayor

Ongwediva junior mayor Etuhole Phillemon urges Namibia’s leaders to place young people at the centre of economic development, saying the youth need opportunities, not promises.

Speaking at the official opening of the 25th Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair on Sunday, Phillemon said Namibia cannot build a resilient, inclusive and sustainable economy while many young people struggle to access employment and business opportunities.

“Imagine a young Namibian finishing school. They have qualifications, dreams and ideas. They want to become doctors, engineers, teachers, entrepreneurs, farmers, scientists and leaders, but when they search for opportunities, they apply, wait, apply again and wait again. Eventually, the question changes from what do I want to become, to will I ever get the opportunity to do anything at all?”

Phillemon said more than one million Namibians are between the ages of 15 and 34, describing the youth population as the country’s greatest asset.

“That is more than one million minds, ideas and potential. That is not a burden. It is Namibia’s greatest opportunity,” she said.

The junior mayor thus called for stronger links between education and the job market through internships, apprenticeships and practical work experience.

She also advocated greater support for youth entrepreneurship, noting that young people need more than encouragement.

“We need access to finance, mentorship, markets, technology and business skills so that good ideas can become sustainable businesses.”

Phillemon urged authorities to invest in future-oriented skills, mental health services and youth participation in decision-making processes.

“Give young people a meaningful seat at the table. Not only at youth events, but when policies are designed, budgets are discussed, and decisions affecting our future are made,” she said.

– Nampa